Correctional Nursing Career Guide

Looking for a different career guide?

Overview

Correctional Facility Nurses, also known as Correctional RNs, work within the unique healthcare environment of correctional facilities, including prisons and jails. These specialized nurses provide essential medical care to inmates and detainees while working closely with correctional staff to ensure the safety and well-being of both patients and the facility. Correctional RNs play a critical role in addressing

Education

To become a Correctional RN, you need to complete a nursing program and obtain a nursing license. The most common educational path is earning a nursing degree, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). ADN programs typically take two to three years to complete, while BSN programs

A stethoscope held in one hand

Related certifications

In addition to obtaining a nursing license, Correctional RNs may need to meet specific requirements to work in a correctional setting. Some facilities may prefer or require previous experience in correctional or emergency nursing. Advanced certifications in correctional healthcare may also be beneficial for career advancement in this specialty.

State licenses process and requirements

All 50 states require state licensure to become a professional nurse. Review the step-by-step process to obtain or renew your RN license in each one.
Select
A stethoscope held in one hand

Skills

Staff and Travel Correctional RNs need a diverse set of skills to excel in their role. They must have a solid understanding of general nursing principles and the ability to assess and manage various medical conditions. Technical skills, such as wound care, medication administration and emergency response, are crucial for providing quality healthcare in a correctional environment. Effective

Thousands of
healthcare jobs in
your pocket.

4.8

13.6k Ratings

4.4

1.5k Ratings

Responsibilities

Correctional RNs have a wide range of responsibilities in their unique work setting. They conduct health assessments on incoming inmates, manage chronic conditions and provide preventive care to reduce health risks within the facility. Correctional RNs administer medications, provide emergency care and handle medical emergencies within the correctional facility. Additionally, they promote health education and disease prevention among inmates. Correctional

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
Correctional Nursing
$1,666-2,606/week

The average salary for a Correctional Nursing is $2,130.21 per week.

Last updated on December 21, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Pros of becoming a Correctional RN include the opportunity to work in a unique healthcare environment, the chance to make a positive impact on vulnerable populations and the potential for career growth in correctional healthcare. This profession offers diverse experiences and the ability to address a wide range of medical conditions.

However, there are some challenges associated with this specialty. Correctional

Was this page helpful?

Correctional Nursing Jobs


View job details for Registered Nurse - Correctional
Travel Contract

Registered Nurse - Correctional

  • Taylorville, IL
  • Genie Healthcare
  • 5x8 hrs, Evenings

$3,069/week

Estimated pay package
Posted 11 days ago
View job details for Travel Registered Nurse - Correctional
Travel Contract

Travel Registered Nurse - Correctional

  • Staunton, VA
  • GQR Healthcare
  • 4x12 hrs, Evenings, Nights

$3,034/week

Posted 9 days ago
View job details for Registered Nurse - Correctional
Travel Contract

Registered Nurse - Correctional

  • Ina, IL
  • AB Staffing Solutions
  • 5x8 hrs
  • Referral Bonus

$2,722/week

Posted 1 day ago
View job details for Registered Nurse - Correctional
Travel Contract

Registered Nurse - Correctional

  • Lincoln, IL
  • AB Staffing Solutions
  • 5x8 hrs
  • Referral Bonus

$2,722/week

Posted 3 days ago

Get alerts about new jobs

Be the first to know about new jobs for Correctional Nurses.

Some of the content on this page was enhanced using artificial intelligence.

Join over 1 million healthcare workers that are getting a head start with Vivian.

Join Vivian
A group of healthcare professionals.